The two-year project, called Building Climate Action Communities, will create a regional model of community-based climate change education programs, with a specific emphasis on moving people to action. The project will be implemented through the three Audubon organizations, along with several community collaborators.

Building Climate Action Communities programs, activities, and materials will focus on the effects of climate change on local plants, wildlife, and people. For instance, long-term monitoring of plants and selected animals by Mass Audubon scientists on our wildlife sanctuaries and across the state will allow us to track their response to climate change.

The project will also develop opportunities for local residents to participate in stewardship projects and climate literacy discussions that focus on taking meaningful action at home and in their communities.

In the wake of the recent Paris Climate Change Conference, which emerged with both an unprecedented international agreement and a great sense of urgency, the Building Climate Action Communities initiative is especially timely, said Mass Audubon Director of Education and project lead Kris Scopinich.

“The Paris agreement must inspire us all to action, starting now and right in our own communities,” Scopinich emphasized. “So we are committed to achieving substantive results with the programs developed through this crucial EPA funding, for which all three of our organizations are extremely grateful.

“Working with the Audubon Society of Rhode Island and Connecticut Audubon, this project—and everyone it engages—will benefit from our combined expertise and conservation values,” she added.

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Mass Audubon protects more than 38,000 acres of land throughout Massachusetts, saving birds and other wildlife, and making nature accessible to all. As Massachusetts' largest nature conservation nonprofit, we welcome more than a half million visitors a year to our wildlife sanctuaries and 20 nature centers. From inspiring hilltop views to breathtaking coastal landscapes, serene woods, and working farms, we believe in protecting our state's natural treasures for wildlife and for all people's vision shared in 1896 by our founders, two extraordinary Boston women.

Today, Mass Audubon is a nationally recognized environmental education leader, offering thousands of camp, school, and adult programs that get over 225,000 kids and adults outdoors every year. With more than 135,000 members and supporters, we advocate on Beacon Hill and beyond, and conduct conservation research to preserve the natural heritage of our beautiful state for today's and future generations. We welcome you to explore a nearby sanctuary, find inspiration, and get involved. Learn how at www.massaudubon.org.

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Mass Audubon is a nonprofit, tax-exempt charitable organization (tax identification number 04-2104702) under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Donations to Mass Audubon are tax-deductible to the full extent provided by law.